A Major Step for Ireland
The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner. The agreement is a significant step as Ireland prepares to launch its first licensing phase under a new regulatory framework. It is also a key development aimed at strengthening cross-border oversight.
Signed in Dublin by the GRAI CEO, Anne Marie Caulfield, and Gibraltar’s Gambling Commissioner, Andrew Lynam, the MoU outlines principles for cooperation between the two regulatory bodies. It allows for the exchange of information and joint supervision of gambling operators that hold licences in both jurisdictions.
It is the third MoU the GRAI has signed with international regulators; it follows similar agreements with the UK Gambling Commission and the Belgian Gaming Commission. The memoranda are crucial steps as Ireland edges closer to implementing a new regulatory framework in phases.
Ms Caulfield indicated that the Gibraltar regulator has played a constructive role in supporting Ireland’s preparation for launching the new framework. She also noted that formalising the relationship through the MoU would strengthen both authorities’ ability to ensure compliance. She called it a positive and mutually beneficial move.
Ireland’s Proposed System
Earlier this month, the GRAI concluded a public consultation on its proposed licensing system. It revealed there was support for a tiered fee structure and a five-year license. According to the regulatory body, many stakeholders offered constructive feedback. The GRAID said that they expressed pragmatic views rather than raising fundamental objections.
As standard procedure, the GRAI will soon notify the European Commission, other EU member states, and the public under the Technical Regulation Information System. It is a required step for regulatory coherence across the European Union.
As they approach the launch of a new framework, Ireland’s gambling regulator has announced plans to collaborate with other parties relevant to the gambling industry. The list includes industry participants, public health bodies, members of the public, civil society groups, and other regulatory peers. The GRAI also expressed dedication to a transparent, proportionate, and effectively regulated environment.
The GRAI was established to regulate gambling and certain lottery activities in Ireland. Its core mission is to ensure that gambling is conducted fairly and safely. They also protect the public from the associated harms of problem gambling. In their protection role, they pledge to ban gambling with credit cards, enforce safer advertising restrictions, and introduce a National Gambling Exclusion Register.
They have also created a Social Impact Fund to support education, awareness, and research around gambling addiction. They also worked with the Bank of Ireland to implement features such as blocking gambling transactions to help customers limit spending.
